Jane Dixon-Smith, a historical fiction author and book cover designer, shares her lessons learned from self-publishing a cookery photo book. Topics covered include the challenges of photography and design, tips on producing quality photos without professional equipment, choosing images for a photo-dominant book, and working with designers to incorporate AI into designs.
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Quick takeaways
Adding personal touches and stories can make a cookbook more original and engaging.
Photographing food in appealing ways can be achieved without professional equipment.
Considering the aesthetics and quality of physical books is crucial for standing out in the publishing industry.
Deep dives
Creating a Cookbook: Challenges of a Photo-Heavy Book
Jane Dixon Smith discusses the challenges of creating a cookbook, from choosing recipes and personalization to photography, editing, and design decisions. She emphasizes the importance of adding personal touches, such as stories and tips, to make the book more original and engaging. Smith shares her experience in testing and photographing the recipes, offering tips for showcasing food in appealing ways. She also delves into the publishing process, discussing choices like paper type, printing, and distribution, while providing insights on cost considerations. Lastly, Smith explores the use of AI images in book design, highlighting the advantages of incorporating AI-generated content alongside professional design work.
Predictions for Publishing in 2024
Smith discusses Brandon Sanderson's predictions for the publishing industry in 2024. Sanderson anticipates the continued rise of subscription models like Kindle Unlimited and streaming services for audiobooks, which may impact author royalties. He also shares concerns about publishers valuing intellectual property over individual author voices and controlling more revenue streams. Sanderson emphasizes the importance of author marketing and notes the challenges of book launches in the current publishing landscape. He also mentions the impact of authors purchasing ad space to compete in a saturated market. Smith provides insights into these predictions, offering her own perspective on the evolving publishing landscape.
Importance of Physical Products in Publishing
Smith explains how Sanderson's predictions underscore the importance of physical products in the publishing industry. While subscription models and digital products are on the rise, Smith emphasizes the value of creating beautiful physical books. She believes subscription models can be utilized for discoverability and audience engagement, while physical products provide additional revenue streams and appeal to readers who appreciate the tactile experience of holding a book. Smith encourages authors and publishers to consider the aesthetics and quality of physical books, aiming for designs that stand out and offer added value to readers.
Being Mindful of Contract Clauses in Traditional Publishing
Smith highlights Sanderson's warning about contract clauses in traditional publishing. Sanderson cautions authors to be cautious of intellectual property (IP) grabs and clauses that allow publishers to control various revenue streams. Smith advises authors to be aware of contract terms and strive for a balance between traditional and independent publishing. She underscores the significance of valuing individual author voices and recommends authors consider working with groups like the Alliance of Independent Authors to protect their interests.
Challenges and Opportunities for Book Marketing
Smith shares Sanderson's observations regarding book marketing challenges. Sanderson notes that launching a book has become increasingly difficult and highlights the unsustainability of current marketing practices. Smith echoes these concerns while highlighting the opportunities offered by generative AI search, which she believes can help authors improve their marketing efforts. She emphasizes the importance of adapting marketing strategies, considering other forms of promotion beyond paid ads, and finding ways to connect with readers more effectively. Smith concludes with a discussion on AI in book creation, emphasizing the enduring importance of the human touch in writing and storytelling.
Do you want to publish an image-heavy book like a cookbook? How can you navigate the challenges of photography, book design, and publishing choices to make the best product possible? Jane Dixon-Smith shares her lessons learned from her first cookbook. In the intro, Brandon Sanderson's predictions about publishing [Daniel Greene]; Craig Mod talks about walking […]